Hydrodynamics of a Subsonic Vapor Jet in Subcooled Liquid

Abstract

Small scale experiments were performed to investigate the condensation process and hydrodynamic pressure oscillations when steam was discharged into a subcooled water pool. The dynamic behavior of subsonic jets, differed from that of sonic jets. The interfacial motion of a subsonic jet was periodic, composed by three intervals: bubble growth, bubble translation, and bubble separation (necking). The condensation rate for each interval was governed by different processes. The pressure transient of the subsonic jet was marked by periodic impulses, originated by the necking process. Of the intensive parameters studied, pool subcooling exhibited the largest influence on dynamic behavior. The pulse frequency and intensity were found to be best fit by correlations involving the Jacob number and the Reynolds number.